History of GIF
The Supplier Inspection Group (GIF) was born from the long-standing experience of the Quality Project Group, active within the Italian Association for Quality Control (AICQ), with the aim of offering an efficient and shared model for conducting supplier audits in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and related sectors.
In response to regulatory obligations introduced by European directives 2001/83/EC and 2003/94/EC, and to GMP/GDP standards, GIF promotes the execution of joint inspections among member companies, leveraging the resources, expertise, and experience of internal auditors.
A Model Inspired by Europe
Today, the group includes over 80 member companies, including leading pharmaceutical, chemical-pharmaceutical, cosmetic, distribution, and food companies. It aims to conduct joint audit activities, inspired by models already in place in Germany and Spain.
To ensure credibility, reliability, and independence, GIF has established a solid organizational structure from the outset, based on strict internal rules and procedures that protect both member companies and inspected suppliers.
Confidentiality and Transparency
Special attention is given to:
- Controlled management of audit reports
- Data confidentiality
- The right of companies to decide who can access the inspection results
Shared Audits and Professional Growth
Inspections are conducted by teams of at least two auditors from different companies, all qualified and experienced, ensuring maximum objectivity and competence.
Participating in shared audits allows companies to:
- Significantly reduce the number of individual inspections
- Access hundreds of audit reports each year at no cost
- Achieve substantial savings in time, resources, and costs
The GIF model also supports the professional development of young auditors, who enhance their skills in supplier qualification through field experience and collaboration with more senior colleagues.
A Unique Example in Italy
Today, GIF stands as a unique example of inter-company collaboration in the Italian quality auditing landscape, offering clear benefits to both member companies and inspected suppliers.